The Case for Not Overstocking Your IRA

by Ben StevermanMar 24, 20173 minutes

• A new book extols the value of debt and liquidity

• “I need Ben to have more flexibility”

In 2016, I finally paid off my student debt. Practically every other cent left over after rent and other living expenses went into my retirement account. Was it a mistake to load up my 401(k)? Thomas Anderson thinks so. This is our story.

Compared with the average American, I’m doing all right. I have a good job, I’m saving regularly, and I’m debt-free for the first time since graduate school. That doesn’t feel like nearly enough, though,